Abstract:
Background: Due to several toxic effects of synthetic diuretics drugs, people relay
of medicinal plants as a source of diuretics. Hence, the efficacy of Tragia spp.
which belonging to plant family Euphorbiaceae is an important medicinal plant
used as a diuretic in Sri Lanka.
Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate diuretic activity and
standardize whole plant of Tragia spp.
Materials and methods: Plant extract (doses of 550, 1100, 1650, 2200 mg/kg),
vehicle (2 ml of distilled water), reference drug (furosemide at 13 mg/kg) were
given orally to separate groups of Wistar male rats (N = 6). In order to assess the
diuretic activity, urine output was measured hourly for five hours. Na+ and K+
content, specific gravity, pH of urine measured in all groups. Whole plant of Tragia
spp. was standardized in terms of physico-chemical parameters, phytochemical
screening and antioxidant activity.
Results: Results revealed that urine output of rats were significantly (P<0.05)
increased when increasing the dose of Tragia spp. extract. Diuretic activity was
initiated in the first hour and declined with time. Diuresis was maximum at the
1 h and at a dose of 2200 mg/kg urine output was significantly (P<0.05) higher
than the reference drug. Tragia spp. extract also triggered a clear increase in Na+
and K+ levels and decreased pH levels in urine. Physico-chemical parameters,
phytochemical screening and antioxidant activity were determined in order to
standard Tragia spp.
Conclusion: Tragia spp. exhibit marked diuretic activity and its mechanism of
action is similar to a loop diuretic drug. Further, establishment of standardization
parameters of Tragia spp. will help in correct identification and prevent
adulteration.
